Commentary/Opinion
You Decide: Is Social Security Secure?
By Mike Walden Recently, one of my relatives contacted me, and there was desperation in her voice. Immediately, I worried it was about a health issue for her or another…
Opinion: Carolina Congressmen Tell Off Constituents
By John Hood ALEIGH — Ever written your congressman? I have. I always get a prompt and cordial, if bland, reply. Back in 1988, I actually spent a few weeks…
You Decide: Will North Carolina Get An MLB Team?
By Mike Walden Although I have lived and worked in North Carolina for almost 50 years, I wasn’t born in this wonderful state. I was born and raised in Cincinnati,…
Opinion: Look Before Leaping To New System
By John Hood RALEIGH — In a recent column, I outlined three ways that North Carolina’s system of government differs from that of many other states, including our neighbors. First,…
Opinion: Supply-Side Policies Boost North Carolina
By John Hood RALEIGH — After North Carolina conservatives won control of the General Assembly in 2010, they began a systematic application of supply-side principles to state policy. It’s been…
Opinion: Put Your Tax Cards On The Table
By John Hood RALEIGH — The North Carolina House and Senate have enacted very different versions of a 2025-27 state budget, even though two plans would authorize virtually the same…
Opinion: Requiring Work For Benefits Is Wise
By John Hood RALEIGH — There are good reasons to criticize the “Big, Beautiful Bill” the U.S. House just sent to the Senate. But its imposition of work requirements for…
You Decide: Where Are We On The Inflation Battle?
By Mike Walden Price inflation was one of the top issues in the 2024 presidential election. People were tired of seeing big price jumps, especially if those increases were more…
Why I Teach: A Story Of Heart Over Hype
By Dr. Ken Robol At Johnston Community College, we may not have the deep pockets or shiny new buildings of larger institutions like Wake Tech — but what we do…
National Police Week: Supporting Law Enforcement
National Police Week is May 11 – 17, 2025 By: A.Z Williams As someone who has been in public safety for 35 years, I appreciate the acknowledgement and homage paid…
You Decide: Who Controls The Federal Reserve?
By Mike Walden One of my favorite topics, both when I was teaching at NC State University and now as I continue to speak to various groups, is the Federal…
Letter To Editor: Life Jackets Save Lives, But Only If They Are Worn
A close call on Holt’s Lake in Johnston County is a reminder of how important it is to wear a life jacket. Two people jumped into the water to rescue…
